Louvre

The Louvre, originally the palace of King Philip II of France, reinvented itself as an art museum in 1793. This book presents a survey of the collections - filled with such iconic works as the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa - and the history and artistry of the institution itself.

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Since first opening its doors in 1793, the Louvre has become one of the largest and most famous museums in the world and, with 8.3 million visitors per year, it is also the most visited. Louvre: 400 Masterpieces showcases a selection of works from this great institution, from the most famous—the Venus de Milo and Mona Lisa—to lesser-known gems. With a foreword by the institution’s director, Henri Loyrette, the book is organized according to the museum’s eight departments: Near Eastern Antiquities; Egyptian Antiquities; Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities; Islamic Art; Sculptures; Decorative Arts; Paintings; and Prints and Drawings. The ninth and final chapter tells the history of this one time imperial palace as seen through its architecture. With its appealing format and carefully selected images, many newly photographed, Louvre: 400 Masterpieces is the perfect book for museum visitors, art lovers, and Francophiles.